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Pigeons flock to University of East London end-of-year MA fine art show

Thursday 26 August 2010

Aliya Nuur

Among the more unusual works on display at this year’s end-of-year show for students graduating from their Masters in fine art is a room occupied entirely by live pigeons. The piece, which comprises a number of untethered pigeons and a single decorative chair, was conceptualised by student Maggie Rose and is entitled ‘Emperor’s Favourites’.

Maggie says that she was inspired by the painting ‘The Favourites of Emperor Honorius’ by acclaimed Pre-Raphaelite artist John William Waterhouse.

Waterhouse’s work depicts the Emperor casually feeding pigeons from his throne while advisors and courtesans vie anxiously for his attention. Honorius, who ruled over the Roman Empire jointly with his brother Arcadius, is recorded as being indecisive and generally passive in nature, taking very little interest in public affairs.

Maggie says: “The image seemed relevant to our times with the credit crunch and everyone worrying about money. People should try and chill out and relax more, like Emperor Honorius!” That said; he did leave a legacy of fragmentation and apathetic leadership which led to the dissolution of the Western Empire.

About her installation, which uses birds borrowed from a pet shop in Romford, Maggie adds: “I tend to use found natural objects in my pieces, such as feathers and eggs but this is the first time I have used living animals. Some people consider pigeons to be vermin but I think they’re amazing”. 

The exhibition runs until Sunday 5th September and opens on Wednesday with a private view between 6pm and 9pm. The pigeons will be used on the Wednesday and Thursday only.

If you would like to attend the private view, please contact the UEL press office on the number given.

Notes to Editors

The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 28,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.

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